From September 12–20, communities across the country will celebrate Latino Conservation Week, a time to recognize the important contributions of Latino communities to conservation and to encourage greater participation in protecting and enjoying our natural world.

Black Birders Week changed my life. It changed the way I see myself in environmental spaces. It was the reason I joined the Northern Virginia Bird Alliance board and gave me the opportunity to meet Black birders, photographers, artists, conservation leaders, and other Black nature enthusiasts. 

Have you ever paused to think about how many people might want to join us in birding but can’t?

From September 15 to October 15, Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities in the United States.

U.S. laws to protect eagles and migratory birds include exceptions from bans on possessing bird feathers for Native Americans for cultural and religious activities. The exceptions strike a balance between protection of birds and protection of the cultural heritage of Native Americans.

As part of our ongoing commitment to inclusivity and making birding accessible to everyone, the Northern Virginia Bird Alliance is excited to celebrate Birdability Week!

ASNV is adopting a proactive approach to our mission of engaging all northern Virginia communities in enjoying, conserving, and restoring nature for the benefit of birds, other wildlife, and people.

The COVID pandemic and our resultant programmatic pause allowed ASNV to reflect and act on how we engage with all communities in Northern Virginia.

Birding and being in nature are opportunities for everyone. Whether it’s for healing, respite, or peace, a walk in the outdoors can be especially meaningful to people who face discrimination, experience violence at higher rates, or are rejected by their families for being themselves.